I Am A Native Staten Islander

grew up in Chicago, Illinois, a beautiful city surrounded by violence and controversy by the media. I found things more simple when I was kid growing up here, there wasn't much to worry about but as I got older things became more complex here. The sounds of the " L "' or as you know it as, The Train, and the roaring sounds of cars passing by my house made me feel alive while growing up and as a matter of fact still does. You could wake up in the morning and see the vibrant blue skies being pierced by the skyscrapers and see other kids playing ball or riding their bikes. When it was summer time I would play ins sprinklers or go downtown and play in the fountains with my family. Of course, like most big cities I had to watch my back while growing up because you never knew what somebody was up to. It's weird really growing up here because you never know what's going to happen next , wether it's a good thing or a bad thing. All I can really say about growing up in Chicago is that if I had the chance to redo it, I'd do if a million times.

The privilege to move to California has exposed me to many different cultures. This has allowed me to grow in many ways. The opportunity to listen and learn was there for the taking and I indulged. I now live in a neighborhood filled with people much different from myself My children's classrooms are filled with people from around the globe.  I also have a diverse group of friends that I very much enjoy and spend time with.

I was always really proud to be from Compton, CA. The rich racial and cultural history of the Hub City has had a major impact on many aspects of my life and is part of my identity. My mother is a Mexican-American, she was born in Tijuana and her family moved to Compton in 1962 when she was five. My dad was born in Colorado and his family settled in Compton in 1961 when he was four. My parents were in the same kindergarten class at Jefferson Elementary school and although they didn’t start dating until they were in their 20’s, they definitely helped each other survive the racial injustices and violence that permeated all facets of their educational experience in Compton

I am third-generation Puerto Rican American. Although some do not see me as black, my race is black, my ethnicity is Puerto Rican, and my nationality is American. I grew in a city where 39.3 percent of the population is Hispanic. Growing up in urban city where a large percentage of the population is Hispanic shaped who I am, what I have learned, and the struggles I overcame.

Born to Peggy and Edward Garcia on October 4th 1984, I am a third generation American. My grandfather was born in Mexico and my father was born in New Mexico, while I was born at Fort Lewis Washington, I am a Soldiers Son. While growing up my father was stationed at various bases throughout the United States and I was “lucky” enough to tag along.

The State of New York is famous for its amazing city (New York City), shops, and

The borough of Brooklyn is known for its excellent resteraunts, iconic bars and spacious parks. There is something else that Brooklyn is also know for, although it never gets much attention. It is something that changed the world we live in today, and many fail to mention that Brooklyn is where its birthplace was.

I am originally from a small city in the middle of Florida named Ocala. It is a family friendly city locate approximately an hour away from the beach both on the East or the West side of Florida. I spent my first eight years growing up playing on the beaches, catching lizards, and going over to friend's houses. Ocala has a strong sense of Southern hospitality and the mindset that you should always help your neighbors. Growing up in this community taught me a lot about being polite to your elders, caring about everyone, to listen the first time, and how to cook some of the best cobbler ever. I'm very proud of being raised with Southern mannerisms that set me apart for the current trend of people who only thinking about themselves. I'm thankful

Before moving to Selden, New York there are definitely some things one should know. When people think about Long Island, people immediately think that the beach is five minutes away or you are just a bus ride away from the city. However, there are some misconceptions about Long Island, as a whole, that most people are not aware of. If you are looking for an overcrowded, overpriced place to live, Selden is the place for you!

Our first stop in the borough of Brooklyn was Coney Island. I have never visited the area before and was excited that after 20 years of living in New York City I was able to visit the seaside community. Coney island was once an island adjacent to Kings County. However, what was once small creek that separated island from the mainland was later connected by landfill creating a peninsula. It had received its name from when the Dutch settled into the land. It was called the island Conyne Eylandt or the Rabbit Island since it is shaped like a rabbits foot. The area is known for its seaside resorts

New York City's beautiful Battery Park is without a doubt a gorgeous place to visit 365 days a year! It sure is an amazing location that always excites newcomers and international tourists. There's a great array of cool activities that you can engage in once you arrive at this charming place. You can tour the famous Museum of Jewish Heritage which is a must-see for sure. Take a look at the top-rated exhibitions, like the "Beyond Chicken Soup". It highlights the important role of the medicine which was used as a tool of discrimination and acculturation of the Jewish society. There, you can enjoy inspiring stories of Jewish immigrants shown through short movies at the museum. Once you're done with the renowned museum, don't miss the Manhattan

Living in America is a fantasy for a lot of people, but living in New York City is something even better, and more magical than any fantasy.

When we arrived in New York City, a nice man with a black car took us to our hotel.. We checked in our hotel and set off in the beautiful city of New York. When we took our first walk along Times Square, a strong odor of sewage and street food hit our noses. New York will always have that special

So if I did move to New York it is possible that I might get the slightest bit homesick but it wouldn’t really be about missing my literal home, it would be more about missing friends and family. I think the whole travel aspect of it is why I would like to move to New York. I absolutely love travelling. I have also never been to America before so I would see the whole thing as a big adventure really. Experiencing new things, pouring myself into a whole world that seems strange and wonderful yet at the same time completely

When you mention New York to anyone, they automatically think about Times Square. This beautiful place with skyscrapers, Central Park, and a unique transportation system. However, if you were to ask me what I think about New York; I believe the skyscrapers block the sun, Central park is just a regular park for dogs, and the subway trains rarely run consistently especially in the mornings. I have lived in New York for 18 years, and I have yet to understand what everyone likes about the “ Big Red Apple.”